US10063202B2 - Intelligently modifying the gain parameter of a playback device - Google Patents

Abstract

Techniques for optimizing a player based on the addition of a second player are disclosed. In an embodiment, when a first player no longer needs to play certain audio frequencies due to the addition of a second player, the gain of the first player is automatically increased as part of the setup process. In another embodiment, when a first player needs to play certain audio frequencies, for example due to the removal of a second player, the gain of the first player is automatically decreased. Many other embodiments are disclosed.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/458,558 filed on Apr. 27, 2012, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

The presently described technology is directed towards technology for use in the area of consumer electronics. In particular, certain embodiments described herein are directed to intelligently increasing the sound level of a player when combined to play with another player.

Music is very much a part of our everyday lives. And thanks to the advancement of technology, music content is now more accessible than ever. The same can be said of other types of media, such as television, movies, and other audio and video content. In fact, now a user can readily access content over the Internet through an online store, an Internet radio station, online music service, online movie service, and the like, in addition to the more traditional means of accessing audio and video content.

The demand for such audio and video content continues to surge. Given the high demand over the years, technology used to access and play such content has likewise improved. Even still, technology used in accessing the content and/or the playback of such content can be significantly improved or developed in ways that the market or end users do not anticipate.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Features, aspects, and advantages of the presently described technology will become better understood by a person skilled in the art with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:

FIG. 1 shows an example configuration in which certain embodiments may be practiced;

FIG. 2A shows an illustration of an example zone player having a built-in amplifier and speakers;

FIG. 2B shows an illustration of an example zone player having a built-in amplifier and connected to external speakers;

FIG. 2C shows an illustration of an example zone player connected to an A/V receiver and speakers;

FIG. 3 shows an illustration of an example controller;

FIG. 4 shows an internal functional block diagram of an example zone player;

FIG. 5 shows an internal functional block diagram of an example controller;

FIG. 6 shows an illustration of an example zone player;

FIG. 7 shows an illustration of the example zone player inFIG. 6, but with the addition of a second zone player; and

FIG. 8 shows a flowchart illustrating an example method for intelligently adjusting a sound level of a first player when combined to play with a second player.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

I. Overview

The embodiments described herein relate to new technology for increasing the sound level of a player by an automatic configuration adjustment when combined to play, or not play, with another audio output device. The embodiments are particularly useful in a loudspeaker system in which an audio output device, like a subwoofer, is added or removed. The embodiments may also find utility, for example, in connection with any environment and audio system for which an increased sound level is desired.

In an embodiment, for example, an audio signal is received that contains a range of audio frequencies. The audio signal may be an analog or digital representation of sound. The range of audio frequencies might include 20 to 20,000 Hz, for example, or some other range (small or large) audible to the average human. The audio signal is amplified according to a gain parameter. The gain parameter may be stored in memory or some other storage medium. The gain parameter is increased responsive to a determination that no more than a portion of the range of audio frequencies is to be reproduced. The audio signal, containing a portion of the range of audio frequencies, is amplified according to the higher gain parameter.

In another embodiment, for example, a high-pass filter is applied to a full-range audio signal. In some embodiments, the high-pass filer is applied to the full-range audio signal at the player. In alternative embodiments, the high-pass filter is applied before the signal reaches the player. Irrespective of where the signal filtering occurs, it may be determined, such as during zone setup or configuration, that only a portion of the range of audio frequencies is to be reproduced by the player, such as the mid and high frequencies. The bass frequencies may be sent to a subwoofer player. The crossover frequency may be determined based on the player characteristics. With the high pass filter being applied, the maximum sound pressure level (SPL) capability of the player can be greater. To utilize the potential increase in output capability, the amplifier gain of the player is automatically increased. The adjustment of SPL may be reflected in the loudness or volume output of the player, the zone for which the player is a part of, or both.

In another embodiment, for example, a user can pair a subwoofer with another player or players over a wireless network. The subwoofer may be dedicated to the reproduction of low audio frequencies (sometimes referred to as “bass”). The subwoofer can augment the low frequency range of the player(s) covering the mid to high frequency bands. Using a controller, such as described below, the pairing initiates a process for automatically adjusting the performance of the player or players, and in some embodiments adjusts the performance of the subwoofer, if the subwoofer is so programmed.

In some embodiments, a gain parameter may be automatically decreased back to a previous gain setting when it is determined that the player is configured to handle a wider bandwidth signal (e.g., when a subwoofer is removed from the system). For example, the gain setting of the player may dynamically switch to different setting levels based on the setup of the player with additional players in a particular zone or zones or the removal of players from the particular zone or zones.

In some embodiments, gain parameters, including the higher gain parameter, are stored in memory or storage medium at the player. Accordingly, the gain parameters may be accessed when a dynamic switch from one gain parameter to another gain parameter is to occur. More than two gain parameters may be stored, such as in a table of gain parameters, where each gain parameter corresponds to a particular setup.

In some embodiments, the gain parameter is stored in memory or storage medium and the higher (and in some cases, the lower) gain parameter is determined in real-time. Accordingly, the gain new gain parameter is computed or determined responsive to setup of the system or some other dynamic event. In some embodiments, the gain parameters may be computed by a device separate from the player and subsequently sent to the player.

In some embodiments, any of three actions can trigger an SPL change: zone players are bonded (e.g., paired) or removed from a bonded zone, a configuration change is made in the user interface (e.g., the user selects/deselects a “sub” option), and based on the content (e.g., the SPL of the midrange may be increased with 2.1 audio which includes stereo left and right channels and a low-frequency channel, but not with just 2-channel audio which only includes stereo left and right channels).

The description discloses example systems, methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture including, among other components, firmware and/or software executed on hardware. It should be noted that such systems, methods, apparatus, and/or articles of manufacture are merely illustrative and should not be considered as limiting. For example, it is contemplated that any or all of these firmware, hardware, and/or software components could be embodied exclusively in hardware, exclusively in software, exclusively in firmware, or in any combination of hardware, software, and/or firmware. Accordingly, while the following describes example systems, methods, apparatus, and/or articles of manufacture, the examples provided are not the only way(s) to implement such systems, methods, apparatus, and/or articles of manufacture.

When any of the appended claims are read to cover a purely software and/or firmware implementation, at least one of the elements in at least one example is hereby expressly defined to include a tangible medium such as a memory, DVD, CD, Blu-ray, and so on, storing the software and/or firmware.

Furthermore, reference herein to “embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment can be included in at least one example embodiment of the invention. The appearances of this phrase in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. As such, the embodiments described herein, explicitly and implicitly understood by one skilled in the art, can be combined with other embodiments.

II. Example Environment

Referring now to the drawings, in which like numerals may refer to like parts throughout the figures.FIG. 1 shows anexample system configuration100 in which certain embodiments described herein may be practiced. By way of illustration, thesystem configuration100 represents a home with multiple zones. Each zone, for example, represents a different room or space, such as an office, bathroom, bedroom, kitchen, dining room, family room, home theater room, utility or laundry room, and patio. While not shown here, a single zone may cover more than one room or space. One or more of thezone players102 to124 are shown in each respective zone. A controller130 (e.g., shown in the kitchen for purposes of illustration) provides control to thesystem configuration100. It is understood that multiple controllers may operate insystem configuration100, and each controller may be used, for example, to control any zone player or group of zone players or a subset of zone players or group of zone players. Thesystem configuration100 illustrates an example whole house audio system, though it is understood that the technology described herein is not limited to its particular place of application or to an expansive system like a whole house audio system.

FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C show example illustrations of azone player200. Thezone player200 may correspond to any ofzone players102 to124. With respect toFIG. 2A, theexample zone player200 includes a built-in amplifier topower speakers202. A particular speaker might include a tweeter, mid-range driver, or subwoofer. In certain embodiments, thezone player200 ofFIG. 2A may be configured to play stereophonic audio or monaural audio. With respect toFIG. 2B, theexample zone player200 includes a built-in amplifier to power a set ofdetached speakers204.Speakers204 might include any type of loudspeaker. With respect toFIG. 2C, theexample zone player200 does not include an amplifier, but allows areceiver206, or another audio and/or video type device with built-in amplification, to connect to adata network128 and play audio received over thedata network128 viareceiver206 andspeakers204. Example zone players include a “PLAY:5”, “PLAY:3”, “CONNECT”, and “CONNECT:AMP,” which are offered by Sonos, Inc. of Santa Barbara, Calif. A zone player may also be referred to herein as a “playback device” or a “player”, and a zone player is not limited to the particular examples illustrated inFIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C. For example, a zone player may include a wired or wireless headphone. In another example, a zone player might include a subwoofer. In yet another example, a zone player might include a television.

FIG. 3 shows an example illustration of awireless controller300 in adocking station302. Thecontroller300 may correspond to the controllingdevice130 ofFIG. 1. Thecontroller300 is provided with atouch screen304 that allows a user to interact with thecontroller300, for example, to retrieve and navigate a playlist of audio items, control operations of one or more zone players, and provide overall control of thesystem configuration100. In certain embodiments, any number of controllers may be used to control thesystem configuration100. The controllers might be wireless likewireless controller300 or wired to thedata network128. Furthermore, an application running on any network-enabled portable devices, such as an iPhone, iPad, Android powered phone, or any other smart phone or network-enabled device may be used as a controller by connecting to thedata network128 and/or directly to one ormore zone players102 to124 or to some other configured device insystem configuration100. An application running on a laptop or desktop PC or Mac may also be used as a controller. Example controllers include a “Sonos CONTROL”, “Sonos Controller CR100,” “Sonos Controller for iPhone,” “Sonos Controller for iPad,” “Sonos Controller for Android”, “Sonos Controller for Mac or Pc,” which are offered by Sonos, Inc. of Santa Barbara, Calif. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the flexibility of such an application and its ability to be ported to a new type of portable device.

Referring back to thesystem configuration100 ofFIG. 1, a particular zone may contain one or more zone players. For example, the family room contains twozone players106 and108, while the kitchen is shown with onezone player102. Zones may be dynamically configured by positioning a zone player in a room or space and assigning via thecontroller130 the zone player to a new or existing zone. As such, zones may be created, combined with another zone, removed, and given a specific name (e.g., “Kitchen”), if so programmed. Thezone players102 to124 are coupled directly or indirectly to a data network, represented in the figure by128. Thedata network128 is represented by an octagon in the figure to stand out from other components shown in the figure. While thedata network128 is shown in a single location, it is understood that such a network may be distributed in and around thesystem configuration100.

Particularly, thedata network128 may be a wired network, a wireless network, or a combination of both. In one example, one or more of thezone players102 to124 are wirelessly coupled to thedata network128 based on a proprietary mesh network. In another example, one or more of thezone players102 to124 are wirelessly coupled to thedata network128 using a non-mesh topology. In yet another example, one or more of thezone players102 to124 are coupled via a wire to thedata network128 using Ethernet or similar technology. In addition to the one ormore zone players102 to124 connecting to thedata network128, thedata network128 may further allow access to a wide area network, such as the Internet.

In certain embodiments, thedata network128 may be created by connecting any ofzone players102 to124, or some other connecting device, to a broadband router.Other zone players102 to124 may then be added wired or wirelessly to thedata network128. For example, a zone player (e.g., any ofzone players102 to124) may be added to thesystem configuration100 by simply pressing a button on the zone player itself, which enables a connection to be made to thedata network128. The broadband router may be connected to an Internet Service Provider (ISP), for example. The broadband router may be used to form another data network within thesystem configuration100, which may be used in other applications (e.g., web surfing). Thedata network128 may also be used in other applications, if so programmed. Further, in certain embodiments, thedata network128 is the same network used for other applications in the household, for example.

In certain embodiments, each zone can play from the same audio source as another zone or each zone can play from a different audio source. For example, someone can be grilling on the patio and listening to jazz music viazone player124, while someone is preparing food in the kitchen and listening to classical music viazone player102. Further, someone can be in the office listening to the same jazz music viazone player110 that is playing on the patio viazone player124. In some embodiments, the jazz music played viazone players110 and124 is played in synchrony. Synchronizing playback amongst zones allows for someone to pass through zones while seamlessly listening to the audio. Further, zones may be put into a “party mode” such that all associated zones will play audio in synchrony.

In certain embodiments, a zone contains two or more zone players. For example, the family room contains twozone players106 and108, and the home theater room contains atleast zone players116,118, and120. A zone may be configured to contain as many zone players as desired, and for example, the home theater room might contain additional zone players to play audio from a 5.1 channel or greater audio source (e.g., a movie encoded with 5.1 or greater audio channels). If a zone contains two or more zone players, such as the twozone players106 and108 in the family room, then the twozone players106 and108 may be configured to play the same audio source in synchrony, or the twozone players106 and108 may be paired to play two separate sounds in left and right channels, for example. In other words, the stereo effects of a sound may be reproduced or enhanced through the twozone players106 and108, one for the left sound and the other for the right sound. In certain embodiments, paired zone players may play audio in synchrony with other zone players. A zone with paired players may also be referred to as a “bonded zone.”

In certain embodiments, three or more zone players may be configured to play various channels of audio that is encoded with three channels or more sound. For example, the home theater room showszone players116,118, and120. If the sound is encoded as 2.1 channel audio, then thezone player116 may be configured to play left channel audio, thezone player118 may be configured to play right channel audio, and thezone player120 may be configured to play bass frequencies. Other configurations are possible and depend on the number of zone players and the type of audio. Further, a particular zone may be configured to play a 5.1 channel audio in one instance, such as when playing audio from a movie, and then dynamically switch to play stereo, such as when playing audio from a two channel source.

In certain embodiments, two or more zone players may be sonically consolidated to form a single, consolidated zone player. A consolidated zone player (though comprised of multiple, separate devices) may be configured to process and reproduce sound differently than an unconsolidated zone player or zone players that are paired, because a consolidated zone player will have additional speaker drivers from which sound may be passed. The consolidated zone player may further be paired with a single zone player or yet another consolidated zone player. Each playback device of a consolidated playback device is preferably set in a consolidated mode.

According to some embodiments, one can continue to do any of: group, consolidate, and pair zone players until a desired configuration is complete. The actions of grouping, consolidation, and pairing are preferably performed through a control interface, such as usingcontroller130, and not by physically connecting and re-connecting speaker wire, for example, to individual, discrete speakers to create different configurations. As such, certain embodiments described herein provide a more flexible and dynamic platform through which sound reproduction can be offered to the end-user.

Sources of audio content to be played byzone players102 to124 are numerous. Music from a personal library stored on a computer or networked-attached storage (NAS) may be accessed via thedata network128 and played. Internet radio stations, shows, and podcasts may be accessed via thedata network128. Music services that let a user stream and download music and audio content may be accessed via thedata network128. Further, music may be obtained from traditional sources, such as a turntable or CD player, via a line-in connection to a zone player, for example. Audio content may also be accessed through AirPlay™ wireless technology by Apple, Inc. Audio content received from one or more sources may be shared amongst thezone players102 to124 via thedata network128 andcontroller130.

III. Example Playback Device

Referring now toFIG. 4, there is shown an example functional block diagram of azone player400 in accordance with an embodiment. Thezone player400 contains anetwork interface402, aprocessor408, amemory410, anaudio processing component412, amodule414, anaudio amplifier416, and aspeaker unit418 connected to theaudio amplifier416.FIG. 2A shows an example illustration of the front side of such a zone player. Other types of zone players may not include the speaker unit418 (e.g., such as shown inFIG. 2B) or the audio amplifier416 (e.g., such as shown inFIG. 2C). Further, it is contemplated that thezone player400 may be integrated into another component. For example, thezone player400 could be constructed as part of a lamp for indoor or outdoor use. Additionally it is understood that thezone player400 could be constructed as part of a video reproducing device such as a television or some other device that reproduces sound

Referring back toFIG. 4, thenetwork interface402 facilitates a data flow between zone players and other devices on a data network (e.g., thedata network128 ofFIG. 1) and thezone player400. In some embodiments, thenetwork interface402 may manage the assembling of an audio source or file into smaller packets that are to be transmitted over the data network or reassembles received packets into the original source or file. In some embodiments, thenetwork interface402 may further handle the address part of each packet so that it gets to the right destination or intercepts packets destined for thezone player400. Accordingly, in certain embodiments, each of the packets includes an IP-based source address as well as an IP-based destination address.

In certain embodiments, thenetwork interface402 may include one or both of awireless interface404 and awired interface406. Thewireless interface404, also referred to as an RF interface, provides network interface functions for thezone player400 to wirelessly communicate with other devices in accordance with a communication protocol (e.g., any of the wireless standards IEEE 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, or 802.15). Thewired interface406 provides network interface functions for thezone player400 to communicate over a wire with other devices in accordance with a communication protocol (e.g., IEEE 802.3 or IEEE 1901). In some embodiments, a zone player includes both of theinterfaces404 and406. In some embodiments, azone player400 includes only thewireless interface404 or thewired interface406.

In certain embodiments, theprocessor408 is a clock-driven electronic device that is configured to process input data according to instructions stored inmemory410. Thememory410 is data storage that may be loaded with one ormore software modules414, which can be executed by theprocessor408 to achieve certain tasks. In one example, a task might be for thezone player400 to retrieve audio data from another zone player or a device on a network. In a second example, a task might be for thezone player400 to send audio data to another zone player or device on a network. In a third example, a task might be for thezone player400 to synchronize playback of audio with one or more additional zone players. In a fourth example, a task might be to pair thezone player400 with one or more zone players to create a multi-channel audio environment. In a fifth example, a task might be to shape the sound output fromzone player400 based on an orientation ofzone player400, a different zone player, or a group of zone players includingzone player400. Other tasks, such as those described herein, may be achieved via the one ormore software modules414 and theprocessor408.

Theaudio processing component412 may include one or more digital-to-analog converters (DAC), an audio preprocessing component, an audio enhancement component or a digital signal processor, and so on. In certain embodiments, the audio that is retrieved via thenetwork interface402 is processed and/or intentionally altered by theaudio processing component412. Further, theaudio processing component412 may produce analog audio signals. The processed analog audio signals are then provided to theaudio amplifier416 for play back throughspeakers418. In addition, theaudio processing component412 may include necessary circuitry to process analog or digital signals as inputs to play fromzone player400, send to another zone player on a network, or both play and send to another zone player on the network. An example input includes a line-in connection (e.g., an auto-detecting 3.5 mm audio line-in connection).

Theaudio amplifier416 is a device that amplifies audio signals to a level for driving one ormore speakers418. The one ormore speakers418 may include an individual transducer (e.g., a “driver”) or a complete speaker system that includes an enclosure including one or more drivers. A particular driver might be a subwoofer (for low frequencies), a mid-range driver (middle frequencies), and a tweeter (high frequencies). An enclosure might be sealed or ported.

Azone player400 may also be referred to herein as a playback device. An example playback device includes a Sonos PLAY:5, which is manufactured by Sonos, Inc. of Santa Barbara, Calif. The PLAY:5 is an example zone player with a built-in amplifier and speakers. In particular, the PLAY:5 is a five-driver speaker system that includes two tweeters, two mid-range drivers, and one woofer. When playing audio content via the PLAY:5, the left audio data of a track is sent out of the left tweeter and left mid-range driver, the right audio data of a track is sent out of the right tweeter and the right mid-range driver, and mono bass is sent out of the woofer. Further, both mid-range drivers and both tweeters have the same equalization (or substantially the same equalization). That is, they are both sent the same frequencies, just from different channels of audio. Audio from Internet radio stations, online music and video services, downloaded music, analog audio inputs, television, DVD, and so on may be played from a Sonos PLAY:5. While the PLAY:5 is an example of a zone player with speakers, it is understood that a zone player with speakers is not limited to one with a certain number of speakers (e.g., five speakers as in the PLAY:5), but rather can contain one or more speakers. Further, a zone player may be part of another device, which might even serve a purpose different than audio (e.g., a lamp or television).

IV. Example Controller

Referring now toFIG. 5, there is shown anexample controller500, which may correspond to the controllingdevice130 inFIG. 1. Thecontroller500 may be used to facilitate the control of multi-media applications, automation and others in a system. In particular, thecontroller500 is configured to facilitate a selection of a plurality of audio sources available on the network and enable control of one or more zone players (e.g., thezone players102 to124 inFIG. 1) through awireless network interface508. According to one embodiment, the wireless communications is based on an industry standard (e.g., infrared, radio, wireless standards IEEE 802.11a, 802.11b 802.11g, 802.11n, or 802.15). Further, when a particular audio is being accessed via thecontroller500 or being played via a zone player, a picture (e.g., album art) or any other data, associated with the audio source may be transmitted from a zone player or other electronic device to thecontroller500 for display.

Thecontroller500 is provided with ascreen502 and aninput interface514 that allows a user to interact with thecontroller500, for example, to navigate a playlist of many multimedia items and to control operations of one or more zone players. Thescreen502 on thecontroller500 may be an LCD screen. Thescreen500 communicates with and is commanded by ascreen driver504 that is controlled by a microcontroller (e.g., a processor)506. Thememory510 may be loaded with one ormore application modules512 that can be executed by themicrocontroller506 with or without a user input via theuser interface514 to achieve certain tasks. In one example, anapplication module512 is configured to facilitate grouping a number of selected zone players into a zone group and synchronizing the zone players for audio play back. In another example, anapplication module512 is configured to control the audio sounds (e.g., volume) of the zone players in a zone group. In operation, when themicrocontroller506 executes one or more of theapplication modules512, thescreen driver504 generates control signals to drive thescreen502 to display an application specific user interface accordingly.

Thecontroller500 includes anetwork interface508 that facilitates wireless communication with a zone player. In one embodiment, the commands such as volume control and audio playback synchronization are sent via thenetwork interface508. In another embodiment, a saved zone group configuration is transmitted between a zone player and a controller via thenetwork interface508. Thecontroller500 may control one or more zone players, such as102 to124 ofFIG. 1. There may be more than one controller for a particular system. Further, a controller may be integrated into a zone player.

It should be noted that other network-enabled devices such as an iPhone, iPad or any other smart phone or network-enabled device (e.g., a networked computer such as a PC or Mac) may be used as a controller to interact or control zone players in a particular environment. According to one embodiment, a software application or upgrade may be downloaded onto a network enabled device to perform the functions described herein.

In certain embodiments, a user may create a zone group including at least two zone players from thecontroller500. The zone players in the zone group may play audio in a synchronized fashion, such that all of the zone players in the zone group play back an identical audio source or a list of identical audio sources in a synchronized manner such that no (or substantially no) audible delays or hiccups could be heard. Similarly, in one embodiment, when a user increases the audio volume of the group from thecontroller500, the signals or data of increasing the audio volume for the group are sent to one of the zone players and causes other zone players in the group to be increased together in volume.

A user via thecontroller500 may group zone players into a zone group by activating a “Link Zones” or “Add Zone” soft button, or de-grouping a zone group by activating an “Unlink Zones” or “Drop Zone” button. For example, one mechanism for ‘joining’ zone players together for audio play back is to link a number of zone players together to form a group. To link a number of zone players together, a user may manually link each zone player or room one after the other. For example, assume that there is a multi-zone system that includes the following zones: Bathroom, Bedroom, Den, Dining Room, Family Room, and Foyer.

In certain embodiments, a user can link any number of the six zone players, for example, by starting with a single zone and then manually linking each zone to that zone.

In certain embodiments, a set of zones can be dynamically linked together using a command to create a zone scene or theme (subsequent to first creating the zone scene). For instance, a “Morning” zone scene command may link the Bedroom, Office, and Kitchen zones together in one action. Without this single command, the user would need to manually and individually link each zone. The single command might include a mouse click, a double mouse click, a button press, a gesture, or some other programmed action. Other kinds of zone scenes may be programmed.

In certain embodiments, a zone scene may be triggered based on time (e.g., such as an alarm clock function). For instance, a zone scene may be set to apply at 8:00 am. The system could link appropriate zones automatically, set specific music to play, and then stop the music after a defined duration. Although any particular zone may be triggered to an On or Off state based on time, for example, a zone scene enables any zones linked to the scene to play a predefined audio (e.g., a favorable song, a predefined playlist) at a specific time and/or for a specific duration. If, for any reason, the scheduled music failed to be played (e.g., an empty playlist, no connection to a share, failed UPnP, no Internet connection for an Internet Radio station), a backup buzzer may be programmed to sound. This buzzer may include a sound file that is stored in a zone player.

V. Maximizing System Performance

FIG. 6 shows an illustration of an example zone player600 (or “player”) having a built-in amplifier andspeakers602. Thezone player600 may reproduce a stereophonic signal, for example, such that the left channel audio may be routed to theleft speaker604 and the right channel audio may be routed to theright speaker606. A monaural signal may be routed to thetweeter608. Other frequency routing configurations are possible inzone player600 and/or with other types of zone players.

Let us assume thatzone player600 is designed to be a full-range player. Accordingly,zone player600 is designed to reproduce as much of the audible frequency as possible in a given audio input signal, such as low, mid, and high frequency signals.Zone player600 may be placed in a zone (e.g., an area or location) to wirelessly receive (or via a wire) an audio signal and play the full-range of that audio signal in that area. If so desired, a user may also pick up and movezone player600 to a different zone and play the full-range of the audio signal in the new zone.

Such as described above, it is understood thatzone player600 contains, among other components, (1) speaker components, such as one or more acoustic transducers (e.g., speakers602), and (2) amplifier components, such as one or more amplifiers to power the speaker components. Given its particular design,zone player600 has a maximum sound pressure level (SPL) output. The maximum SPL output forzone player600 may be based on, for example, the cone area and excursion limits of the speaker components, in addition to the available amplifier power. In other words, the maximum SPL may be the highest output thezone player600 can manage short of damage, not exceeding a particular distortion level, or short of an artificial limiter. Players of different sizes and capabilities can exhibit a different SPL output.

In addition, the spectral content of an audio input signal can have significant affect on the excursion and heating of the speaker components and amplifier power being used byzone player600. For instance, a wider bandwidth signal input intozone player600 may generally push thezone player600 to its limits at a lower SPL output. Reaching its limit at a lower SPL output is more likely given thatzone player600 is currently configured to be a full-range player and is configured to play low frequency sound.

FIG. 7 showszone player600 fromFIG. 6 combined with (bonded to)subwoofer700.Subwoofer700 is also player likezone player600, but designed to reproduce low frequency sound.Subwoofer700 may be added to the zone or area ofzone player600 to play the lower frequency components whilezone player600 plays the midrange to higher frequency components. Alternatively,zone player600 may be moved to or added to the zone or area that containssubwoofer700.Subwoofer700 may be paired to operate withzone player600 via a wired or wireless network, such as described above. The process of addingsubwoofer700 to a zone and/or pairing it to a player likezone player600 can be performed by a set up wizard-like software program that guides the user through the set up process. For example, thesubwoofer700 may be plugged into a standard wall outlet for electrical power and then joined tozone player600 wirelessly or wired using a wireless controller, such as described above, and the set up wizard-like program. A similar process may be performed to add (or bond)zone player600 tosubwoofer700.

In some embodiments, oncesubwoofer700 is added by the user to the system,zone player600 andsubwoofer700 may each store an updated state variable that indicates the two have been set up to play audio together. For example,zone player600 knows that it is paired withsubwoofer700 based on its stored state variable. Similarly,subwoofer700 knows that it is paired withzone player600 based on its stored state variable.

In some embodiments, onlyzone player600 contains an updated state variable that identifies it has been paired withsubwoofer700, and thereforezone player600 may pass certain kinds of information to subwoofer700 over the network connection, like crossover filter characteristics (e.g., frequency and Q) tosubwoofer700 in order to optimize the system performance based on the parameters ofzone player600,subwoofer700, or bothzone player600 andsubwoofer700. In some embodiments, the opposite may be true where it issubwoofer700, instead ofzone player600, which contains the updated state variable.

In some embodiments,zone player600 may be configured to send the lower frequency signal to subwoofer700 over the network connection, and therefore subwoofer700 may not need to update its configuration. In some embodiments, the opposite may be true where it issubwoofer700 that sends the midrange and higher frequency signal tozone player600, and thereforezone player600 may not need to update its configuration. In some embodiments, the full-frequency signal is received at bothzone player600 andsubwoofer700, and each device (e.g.,zone player600 and subwoofer700) filters the full-frequency signal according to its playback capabilities and/or settings.

Whensubwoofer700 is configured for use with a full-range player, such aszone player600, thezone player600 automatically makes adjustments to its settings to optimize performance. The adjustments are made automatically by the system and responsive to pairing such players, usually at the time of setting up the system. In one embodiment, the crossover filter characteristics (e.g., frequency and Q) are determined automatically based on the parameters ofzone player600 andsubwoofer700. In another embodiment, a time delay is determined and added to the audio output ofzone player600,subwoofer700, or bothzone player600 andsubwoofer700. The time delay can provide improved synchronous time arrival of signals sent out fromzone player600 andsubwoofer700. In another embodiment, upmixing is automatically enabled for content that does not natively support the configuration (e.g., stereo content can be upmixed to 2.1 to support the subwoofer). In another embodiment, a dynamic range compressor or limiter function may be disabled. In yet another embodiment, the amplifier gain forzone player600 is automatically increased. Particularly, a high-pass filter is applied to the input audio signal going to zoneplayer600, so that the lower frequency sound can be sent over the wired or wireless network to be played bysubwoofer700.Zone player600 is no longer configured to be a full-range player, but instead is configured to play midrange and high frequency aspects of the audio signal. As such, there will be a smaller amount of excursion required of the low frequency speaker components and the maximum SPL capability ofzone player600 can be greater. To take advantage of the potential increase in output capability, the gain forzone player600 is automatically increased. In some embodiments, the new gain value is stored atzone player600.

Additionally, in some embodiments, whensubwoofer700 is configured for use with a full-range player, such aszone player600, thesubwoofer700 automatically makes one or more adjustments to optimize performance. The adjustments are made automatically and responsive to pairing thesubwoofer700 to another player. Particularly, in some embodiments, the crossover filter characteristics (e.g., frequency and Q) may be determined based on the parameters of the pair player or players. In some embodiments, a time delay may be determined. In some embodiments, the gain may be adjusted to optimize subwoofer performance.

The example above illustrates a number of advantages that may apply to one or more of the above embodiments. First, a zone that contains at least one player is optimized for its current configuration, and such configuration is automatically adjusted when an additional player, such as a subwoofer is added to the zone. An adjustment might include, for example, a crossover adjustment, an EQ adjustment, a timing delay adjustment, and a gain adjustment to play louder. As such, each part of the zone, and the zone as a whole, is optimized for better performance. Second, by reducing the low frequency output of a player, the software can make an automatic adjustment to its gain and play louder (e.g., up to 3 dB in some embodiments, or more depending on the system). Third, pairing between two or more players can be automatically optimized based on the parameters of the players themselves. Such parameters are made known, for example, during the set up process. Fourth, the system is optimized based on its current configuration. For example, a zone may be optimized if it only includes a full-range single player, a full-range single player with a subwoofer, a stereo pair between two players, a stereo pair between two players and a subwoofer, a multi-channel pairing between three or more players as in home theater, and so on. Such optimization may be triggered at set up of the zone.

Furthermore, it is understood that the above example is not limited to the addition of a subwoofer or to a full-range player, but is applicable for all players that can be used to amplify and reproduce a portion of the full audio content (even players without a speaker, such as the Sonos CONNECT:AMP product may benefit from the technology described herein). For example, if a zone includes a first player that is designed to play mid and high frequencies and it is paired with a second player that is designed to play mid frequencies, then the described technology may be used to play only the high frequencies from the first player and increase its SPL output by an automatic gain adjustment, for example.

In some embodiments, a person using a product without an amp, like the Sonos CONNECT product, may also benefit from the described technology if, for example, the amplifier that amplifiers the signal output of the product is configured to receive and/or use adjustable gain parameters. As such, it is not required that the various components that perform the described technology be contained in a single product or device (e.g., amplifier and speakers are not required to be a part of the same product), but rather the various components may be interconnected in such a way so as to be considered a “player” such as described herein to intelligently increase the loudness of the player. An example interconnected system may include a Sonos CONNECT product wired to an A/V receiver in which the amplifier of the A/V receiver is configured to use different gain parameters based on the setup or configuration of a zone or zones in order to optimize the loudness of such system. Another example interconnected system may include a Sonos CONNECT product wired to an active speaker or speakers in which the amplifier contained with the speaker(s) is able to use different gain a parameters based on the setup or configuration of a zone or zones in order to optimize the loudness of such system.

FIG. 8 shows a flowchart illustrating amethod800 for dynamically adjusting a sound level of a first player when combined with a second player.Method800 includes adding a second player to a zone that contains at least one first player perblock802.

Block802 may include pairing the two or more players such that they play audio in synchrony, but they play various portions of the audio including different frequency components of the signal. Initial pairing or bonding occurs during set up of the zone when the second player is added to the zone. The second player may operate wirelessly to receive the audio signal from the first player or from a different player in the zone or not in the zone. In some embodiments, both players receive the audio content wirelessly.

Block804 calls for adjusting the configuration of the first player. In some embodiments, any of three actions can trigger the configuration of the player: zone players are bonded (e.g., paired) or removed from a bonded zone, a configuration change is made in the user interface (e.g., the user selects/deselects a “sub” option), and based on the content (e.g., the SPL of the midrange may be increased with 2.1 audio which includes stereo left and right channels and a low-frequency channel, but not with just 2-channel audio which only includes stereo left and right channels). When the second player is added to the zone, for example, the configuration of the first player is automatically adjusted to optimize the performance of the first player and the zone itself. In the example described above, the first player can be configured in different ways. One such way is by applying a high-pass filter to the input audio signal if, for example, the second player contains a subwoofer. With the high-pass filter being applied to the input audio signal of the first player, the maximum SPL capability of the first player can be greater because it no longer has to reproduce the lower frequency part of the signal. To take advantage of the potential increase in output capability, the gain for the first player is automatically increased. In some embodiments, the gain may be increased for one or more (or all) amplifiers in the first player if more than one amplifier is used. In some embodiments, the gain may be increased only for those amplifiers that power the speaker components whose burden has been reduced because of the addition of the second player.

In some embodiments, for example, a signal processing filter is applied to an audio signal at the player. In alternative embodiments, the signal-processing filter is applied by a device or component before the signal reaches the player.

Block806 calls for determining whether the new configuration of the first player allows an increase in SPL. In some embodiments, this determination is made by the first player. It might be based on the application of a signal processing filter, the type of input signal, or some other indication. In some embodiments, this determination is made by another device and the result is sent to the first player.

Block808 calls for increasing the gain of one or more amplifiers in the first player if the new configuration allows an increase in SPL. In some embodiments, the gain may be determined by the first player. In some embodiments, the gain may be determined by another device and then sent to the first player. The increase in gain may be noticed by a user through increased loudness of the first player or the loudness of the first and second player together, for example.

In some embodiments, the process includes determining in real-time the higher gain parameter based on the portion of the range of audio frequencies to be reproduced by the first player. For example, if the lower frequencies will be handled by the second player, then the gain can go higher than if the second player handles a different range of frequencies.

In some embodiments, the higher gain parameter is defined prior to the determination that no more than the portion of the range of audio frequencies is to be reproduced by the first player. In other words, the higher gain parameter is not determined in real-time.

Block810 calls for saving the new settings. The first player reproduces its audio signal using the new, saved settings. The settings may change when the configuration is no longer optimized due to, for example, removal of the second player from the zone.

VI. Conclusion

The example embodiments described herein provide for numerous ways to increase the sound level of a player when combined to play audio with another player. Technology described herein may be used in any application where optimized sound is desired, such as in residential or commercial settings, motorized vehicles, boats, airplanes, and in outdoor locations. Technology described herein may also be used in centralized networked audio systems instead of mesh network or peer-to-peer type network systems.

For example, a device contains an amplifier for receiving an audio signal containing a range of audio frequencies and amplifying, according to a gain parameter, the audio signal to be reproduced by at least one speaker; and a processor for automatically increasing the gain parameter to a higher gain parameter responsive to a determination that no more than a portion of the range of audio frequencies is to be reproduced by the at least one speaker; wherein the amplifier amplifies, according to the higher gain parameter, the audio signal containing no more than the portion of the range of audio frequencies to be reproduced by the at least one speaker.

In another example, a method includes receiving an audio signal containing a range of audio frequencies; amplifying, according to a gain parameter, the audio signal to be reproduced by at least one speaker; automatically increasing the gain parameter to a higher gain parameter responsive to a determination that no more than a portion of the range of audio frequencies is to be reproduced by the at least one speaker; and amplifying, according to the higher gain parameter, the audio signal containing no more than the portion of the range of audio frequencies to be reproduced by the at least one speaker.

In yet another example, a computer readable storage medium including instructions for execution by a processor, the instructions, when executed, cause the processor to implement a method comprising: receiving an audio signal containing a range of audio frequencies; enabling amplification, according to a gain parameter, the audio signal to be reproduced by at least one speaker; automatically increasing the gain parameter to a higher gain parameter responsive to a determination that no more than a portion of the range of audio frequencies is to be reproduced by the at least one speaker; and enabling amplification, according to the higher gain parameter, the audio signal containing no more than the portion of the range of audio frequencies to be reproduced by the at least one speaker.

While example manners of implementing the example systems have been illustrated in the accompanying Figures, one or more of the elements, processes and/or devices illustrated in the Figures may be combined, divided, re-arranged, omitted, eliminated and/or implemented in any other way. Further, the examples illustrated in the Figures may be implemented by hardware, software, firmware and/or any combination of hardware, software and/or firmware. Thus, for example, the depicted elements may be implemented by one or more circuit(s), programmable processor(s), application specific integrated circuit(s) (ASIC(s)), programmable logic device(s) (PLD(s)) and/or field programmable logic device(s) (FPLD(s)), etc. When any of the apparatus or system claims of this patent are read to cover a purely software and/or firmware implementation, at least one of the example elements is hereby expressly defined to include hardware and/or a tangible computer readable medium such as a memory, DVD, CD, etc. storing the software and/or firmware. Further still, the example systems shown in the Figures may include one or more elements, processes and/or devices in addition to, or instead of, those illustrated in the accompanying Figures and/or may include more than one of any or all of the illustrated elements, processes and devices.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart representative of example machine-readable instructions that may be executed to implement the example systems shown and described herein. In the example ofFIG. 8, the machine-readable instructions include a program for execution by a processor or micro controller. The program may be embodied in software stored on a tangible computer readable medium such as a CD-ROM, a floppy disk, a hard drive, a digital versatile disk (DVD), or a memory associated with a processor, but the entire program and/or parts thereof could alternatively be executed by a device other than the processor and/or embodied in firmware or dedicated hardware. Further, although the example program is described with reference to the flowchart illustrated inFIG. 8, many other methods of implementing the example systems may alternatively be used. For example, the order of execution of the blocks may be changed, and/or some of the blocks described may be changed, eliminated, or combined.

As mentioned above, the example processes ofFIG. 8 may be implemented using coded instructions (e.g., computer readable instructions) stored on a tangible computer readable medium such as a hard disk drive, a flash memory, a read-only memory (ROM), a compact disk (CD), a digital versatile disk (DVD), a cache, a random-access memory (RAM) and/or any other storage media in which information is stored for any duration (e.g., for extended time periods, permanently, brief instances, for temporarily buffering, and/or for caching of the information). As used herein, the term tangible computer readable medium is expressly defined to include any type of computer readable storage and to exclude propagating signals. Additionally or alternatively, the example processes ofFIG. 8 may be implemented using coded instructions (e.g., computer readable instructions) stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium such as a hard disk drive, a flash memory, a read-only memory, a compact disk, a digital versatile disk, a cache, a random-access memory and/or any other storage media in which information is stored for any duration (e.g., for extended time periods, permanently, brief instances, for temporarily buffering, and/or for caching of the information). As used herein, the term non-transitory computer readable medium is expressly defined to include any type of computer readable medium and to exclude propagating signals.

Various inventions have been described in sufficient detail with a certain degree of particularity. It is understood to those skilled in the art that the present disclosure of embodiments has been made by way of examples only and that numerous changes in the arrangement and combination of parts can be resorted without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as claimed. While the embodiments discussed herein can appear to include some limitations as to the presentation of the information units, in terms of the format and arrangement, the embodiments have applicability well beyond such embodiment, which can be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims rather than the forgoing description of embodiments.

Claims (20)

We claim:

1. Tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of a first playback device, cause the first playback device to perform functions comprising:

entering a playback zone with a second playback device, wherein entering the playback zone comprises:

determining a first maximum sound pressure level (SPL) capability of the first playback device while in the playback zone based on (i) an output frequency characteristic of the first playback device, and (ii) an output frequency range characteristic of the second playback device; and

determining a first gain parameter for the first playback device while in the playback zone based on the first maximum SPL capability;

after entering the playback zone, receiving a first audio signal comprising a first audio frequency channel corresponding to the output frequency range of the second playback device and a second audio frequency channel different from the first audio frequency channel;

based on receiving the first audio signal (i) applying the first gain parameter to the second audio frequency channel of the first audio signal when playing the first audio frequency channel, and (ii) transmitting the first audio frequency channel of the first audio signal to the second playback device for playback by the second playback device in synchrony with playback of the first audio frequency channel by the first playback device;

leaving the playback zone such that the first playback device is no longer in the playback zone with the second playback device, wherein leaving the playback zone comprises:

determining a second maximum SPL capability of the first playback device based on the output frequency characteristic of the first playback device, wherein the second maximum SPL capability is lower than the first maximum SPL capability; and

determining a second gain parameter for the first playback device based on the second maximum SPL capability;

after leaving the playback zone, receiving a second audio signal; and

based on receiving the second audio signal, applying the second gain parameter to the second audio signal when playing the second audio signal.

2. The tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium ofclaim 1, wherein the second audio signal is the same as the first audio signal.

3. The tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium ofclaim 1, wherein the second audio signal comprises a third audio frequency channel and a fourth audio frequency channel different from the third audio frequency channel, and wherein applying the second gain parameter to the second audio signal when playing the second audio signal comprises applying the second gain parameter to both the third audio frequency channel and the fourth audio frequency channel.

4. The tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium ofclaim 1, wherein the first playback device is a full-range playback device and the second playback device is a subwoofer device.

5. The tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium ofclaim 1, wherein the first playback device comprises a plurality of transducers, and wherein determining the first SPL capability of the first playback device comprises determining the first SPL capability further based on characteristics of each of the plurality of transducers.

6. The tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium ofclaim 1, wherein the playback zone further comprises a third playback device, and wherein leaving the playback zone further comprises determining the second maximum SPL capability of the first playback device based further on an output frequency characteristic of the third playback device.

7. The tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium ofclaim 1, wherein transmitting the first audio frequency channel of the first audio signal to the second playback device comprises transmitting the first audio frequency channel of the first audio signal to the second playback device via a wireless connection.

8. The tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium ofclaim 1, wherein the functions further comprise:

prior to entering the playback zone, receiving via a wireless connection from a controller device, a command to form the playback zone, wherein the command identifies the first playback device and the second playback device, and wherein entering the playback zone comprises entering the playback zone in response to receiving the command.

9. The tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium ofclaim 1, wherein receiving the first audio signal comprises:

receiving via a wireless connection from a controller device, data indicating a network address from which the first audio signal is to be retrieved; and

receiving the first audio signal from the network address.

10. A first playback device comprising:

one or more processors; and

tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors of the first playback device, cause the first playback device to perform functions comprising:

entering a playback zone with a second playback device, wherein entering the playback zone comprises:

determining a first maximum sound pressure level (SPL) capability of the first playback device while in the playback zone based on (i) an output frequency characteristic of the first playback device, and (ii) an output frequency range characteristic of the second playback device; and

determining a first gain parameter for the first playback device while in the playback zone based on the first maximum SPL capability;

after entering the playback zone, receiving a first audio signal comprising a first audio frequency channel corresponding to the output frequency range of the second playback device and a second audio frequency channel different from the first audio frequency channel;

based on receiving the first audio signal (i) applying the first gain parameter to the second audio frequency channel of the first audio signal when playing the first audio frequency channel, and (ii) transmitting the first audio frequency channel of the first audio signal to the second playback device for playback by the second playback device in synchrony with playback of the first audio frequency channel by the first playback device;

leaving the playback zone such that the first playback device is no longer in the playback zone with the second playback device, wherein leaving the playback zone comprises:

determining a second maximum SPL capability of the first playback device based on the output frequency characteristic of the first playback device, wherein the second maximum SPL capability is lower than the first maximum SPL capability; and

determining a second gain parameter for the first playback device based on the second maximum SPL capability;

after leaving the playback zone, receiving a second audio signal; and

based on receiving the second audio signal, applying the second gain parameter to the second audio signal when playing the second audio signal.

11. The first playback device ofclaim 10, wherein the second audio signal is the same as the first audio signal.

12. The first playback device ofclaim 10, wherein the second audio signal comprises a third audio frequency channel and a fourth audio frequency channel different from the third audio frequency channel, and wherein applying the second gain parameter to the second audio signal when playing the second audio signal comprises applying the second gain parameter to both the third audio frequency channel and the a fourth audio frequency channel.

13. The first playback device ofclaim 10, wherein the first playback device is a full-range playback device and the second playback device is a subwoofer device.

14. The first playback device ofclaim 10, wherein the first playback device comprises a plurality of transducers, and wherein determining the first SPL capability of the first playback device comprises determining the first SPL capability further based on characteristics of each of the plurality of transducers.

15. The first playback device ofclaim 10, wherein the playback zone further comprises a third playback device, and wherein leaving the playback zone further comprises determining the second maximum SPL capability of the first playback device based further on an output frequency characteristic of the third playback device.

16. The first playback device ofclaim 10, wherein transmitting the first audio frequency channel of the first audio signal to the second playback device comprises transmitting the first audio frequency channel of the first audio signal to the second playback device via a wireless connection.

17. A method comprising:

entering, by a first playback device, a playback zone with a second playback device, wherein entering the playback zone comprises:

determining, by the first playback device, a first maximum sound pressure level (SPL) capability of the first playback device while in the playback zone based on (i) an output frequency characteristic of the first playback device, and (ii) an output frequency range characteristic of the second playback device; and

determining, by the first playback device, a first gain parameter for the first playback device while in the playback zone based on the first maximum SPL capability;

after entering the playback zone, receiving, by the first playback device, a first audio signal comprising a first audio frequency channel corresponding to the output frequency range of the second playback device and a second audio frequency channel different from the first audio frequency channel;

based on receiving the first audio signal (i) applying, by the first playback device, the first gain parameter to the second audio frequency channel of the first audio signal when playing the first audio frequency channel, and (ii) transmitting, by the first playback device, the first audio frequency channel of the first audio signal to the second playback device for playback by the second playback device in synchrony with playback of the first audio frequency channel by the first playback device;

leaving, by the first playback device, the playback zone such that the first playback device is no longer in the playback zone with the second playback device, wherein leaving the playback zone comprises:

determining, by the first playback device, a second maximum SPL capability of the first playback device based on the output frequency characteristic of the first playback device, wherein the second maximum SPL capability is lower than the first maximum SPL capability; and

determining, by the first playback device, a second gain parameter for the first playback device based on the second maximum SPL capability;

after leaving the playback zone, receiving, by the first playback device, a second audio signal; and

based on receiving the second audio signal, applying, by the first playback device, the second gain parameter to the second audio signal when playing the second audio signal.

18. The method ofclaim 17, wherein the second audio signal comprises a third audio frequency channel and a fourth audio frequency channel different from the third audio frequency channel, and wherein applying, by the first playback device, the second gain parameter to the second audio signal when playing the second audio signal comprises applying, by the first playback device, the second gain parameter to both the third audio frequency channel and the fourth audio frequency channel.

19. The method ofclaim 17, wherein the first playback device is a full-range playback device and the second playback device is a subwoofer device.

20. The method ofclaim 17, wherein the playback zone further comprises a third playback device, and wherein leaving, by the first playback device, the playback zone further comprises determining, by the first playback device, the second maximum SPL capability of the first playback device based further on an output frequency characteristic of the third playback device.

Images